Parque Tayrona Beaches | Santa Marta

Beaches of Parque Tayrona: A Caribbean Paradise

Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona is one of Colombia’s most stunning destinations, known for its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, lush jungle, and rich indigenous culture. Located on the Caribbean coast near Santa Marta, Tayrona’s beaches offer a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and breathtaking scenery. Some are great for swimming, while others have strong waves and are best for hiking and photography.

1. How to Get to Tayrona’s Beaches

From Santa Marta to Parque Tayrona

• Public Bus: Leaves from the central market in Santa Marta to the El Zaino entrance (the main entrance) in about one hour.
• Taxi: A private taxi costs around 20 to 30 USD from Santa Marta.
• Boat: Direct boats from Taganga take about 1.5 hours to reach Cabo San Juan but can be rough.

Park Entrance and Fees

• Entrance Fee: About 15 USD for foreigners, lower for Colombian citizens.
• Visitors must watch a short environmental conservation video before entering.

2. The Best Beaches in Tayrona National Park

Cabo San Juan – The Most Famous Beach

Cabo San Juan is the most iconic beach in Tayrona, with golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and a famous rocky hill with a hut where visitors can sleep in hammocks.

• Best for: Swimming, camping, scenic views.
• Distance: About two hours hiking from El Zaino entrance.
• Facilities: A small restaurant, camping area, and hammock rentals.

La Piscina – The Best for Swimming

La Piscina means “The Pool” because of its calm, clear waters, which make it one of the safest beaches in the park for swimming and snorkeling.

• Best for: Families, relaxing, snorkeling.
• Distance: About 1.5 hours hiking from El Zaino.
• Highlights: A coral reef protects it from strong waves.

Arrecifes – Stunning but Dangerous for Swimming

Arrecifes is one of the most beautiful but also dangerous beaches due to strong currents and waves. Swimming is prohibited, but it is a great place for walking, photography, and relaxing.

• Best for: Photography, hiking, beach walks.
• Distance: About one hour from El Zaino.
• Facilities: Eco-lodges and restaurants nearby.

Playa Brava – A Hidden, Remote Beach

Playa Brava is a secluded paradise with strong waves and fewer visitors, making it perfect for those looking for a peaceful, off-the-grid experience.

• Best for: Seclusion, nature lovers, eco-tourism.
• Distance: About four hours hiking from the Calabazo entrance.
• Facilities: An eco-lodge with cabins and hammocks.

Cañaveral – The Closest Beach to the Entrance

Cañaveral is the first beach many visitors see when entering Tayrona. While swimming is not allowed, the views are spectacular, and there are high-end eco-lodges nearby.

• Best for: Luxury stays, scenic views.
• Distance: A 10-minute walk from the El Zaino entrance.
• Facilities: Ecohabs Tayrona, one of the most luxurious accommodations in the park.

Playa Nudista – The Most Secluded Beach

Playa Nudista is a semi-official nudist beach that is rarely crowded. It has strong waves but offers a quiet and peaceful escape.

• Best for: Privacy, adventure seekers, nature lovers.
• Distance: A 10-minute walk from Cabo San Juan.

3. Where to Stay in Tayrona

Tayrona offers a mix of camping, eco-lodges, and rustic accommodations near the beaches.

• Cabo San Juan Camping: Hammocks and tents available.
• Ecohabs Tayrona (Cañaveral): High-end eco-lodges with ocean views.
• Playa Brava Eco-Lodge: A quiet place with cabins and hammocks.

Tip: Accommodations fill up quickly, especially in high season, so booking in advance is recommended.

4. Best Time to Visit

• December to April (Dry Season): The best time for hiking and beach activities.
• May to November (Rainy Season): Fewer crowds, lush greenery, but muddy trails.

Tayrona closes every February for environmental conservation, so plan your trip accordingly.

5. Travel Tips

• Bring cash – There are no ATMs inside the park.
• Pack light – Most beaches require long hikes to reach.
• Wear comfortable shoes – The trails can be steep and rocky.
• Respect indigenous areas – The Kogi and Wiwa communities consider Tayrona sacred land.

6. Conclusion

Tayrona’s beaches are some of the most beautiful and diverse in Colombia, offering everything from calm swimming spots to wild, untamed shores. Whether you want to relax in a hammock by the ocean, explore the jungle, or enjoy breathtaking coastal landscapes, there is a perfect beach for everyone in Parque Tayrona.